Sunderland contract outlook as major summer decisions near | OneFootball

Sunderland face significant contract calls this summer alongside their push for Europe. Sunderland Echo notes that a number of first team deals run to 2026, with further expiries beyond.

Despite a 4-3 defeat at Aston Villa on Sunday, the Black Cats sit 11th in the Premier League, four points off sixth with a game in hand. That position could yet carry Champions League qualification, depending on the Europa League outcome.

Their strong return to the top flight has been underpinned by last summer’s spend on Brian Brobbey, Granit Xhaka, Robin Roefs and Nordi Mukiele, among others. Attention now turns to retention and renewals.

This summer’s headline decisions involve Bertrand Traore, Dennis Cirkin and Dan Neil. Traore started brightly but has been sidelined since early March and has only one goal, so it is hard to see an extension. Neil is on loan at Ipswich Town and it has already been confirmed he will not be offered a new deal.

Cirkin has been in and out yet dependable when used, and Sunderland may look to keep him as a budget back-up, though he will want greater minutes.

Lutsharel Geertruida has been a key loan addition for Regis Le Bris, covering full-back, centre-back and midfield. The club would like him beyond this loan, but Le Bris has said it is still too early to discuss.

Sunderland are also monitoring those entering the final year of their terms, most notably Reinildo Mandava and Luke O’Nien.

Source: Sunderland Echo